Prince George resident shot man in self-defense

A Prince George County man acted in self-defense when he fatally shot a Hopewell man during a gathering last month, county authorities have determined.

After an investigation by Prince George police and the county commonwealth's attorney's office, authorities concluded that Jeremy W. Atkins, 21, was fatally shot Oct. 11 after pointing a handgun at a resident of a home in the 3000 block of High Peak Lane.

The resident, who was not identified, fired two shots from a hunting-style shotgun, fatally injuring Atkins, authorities said.

"Based on facts, evidence from the scene and evidence from the office of the chief medical examiner, it has been determined that this shooting was in self-defense and was without criminal intent," Prince George Commonwealth's Attorney Jay Paul wrote.

Police were called to the residence about 3 a.m. for a report of a shooting.

When the first officers arrived, they found a bonfire outside, a gathering of about seven to 10 people, and Atkins on the ground with gunshot wounds to his upper torso. He was taken to John Randolph Medical Center in Hopewell, where he was pronounced dead.

An investigation revealed that there had been an altercation between the resident of the home and a female friend during the gathering outside. The woman left the area but later returned with several of her friends, according to Paul's statement of facts.

As they got out of their car, a verbal confrontation ensued that was directed at the resident. During the encounter, "Atkins pointed a handgun at the resident, who then fired twice from his hunting shotgun, striking Atkins," Paul said.

Paul said the scenario was described by witnesses and confirmed by physical evidence in a report from the medical examiner's office. Evidence recovered from the scene included the resident's shotgun, Atkins' pistol and a hockey mask he had worn on the top of his head.

"Since Oct. 11 there has been a tremendous amount of speculation and rumors circulating throughout the community, much of which has no factual basis," Paul said in the statement. "Everyone connected to the persons directly involved with his incident are urged to exercise calm in coping with this loss. As one tragedy has already occurred, we must strive to avoid another."
Contact Mark Bowes at (804) 649-6450 or .